Gaithersburg's Ashman Throws His Hat into the Ring

In a move widely anticipated by county political insiders for months, and even teased by the just-reelected mayor himself, Gaithersburg’s Jud Ashman says he's officially ready to make his bid.

"Everyone has been asking me, 'Are you going to throw your hat in the ring?', but these decisions require careful consideration and robust family discussion," Ashman told The Montgonion. "The due diligence and soul-searching pointed me in the same direction, taking a risk and making this my opportunity to do something truly big."

Ashman, a veteran of civic service, isn't new to high-stakes competition and says he is prepared to jump into the fray. "This is an all-in effort," he affirmed. "If I'm stepping into the arena, it’s to win, and I’m ready to put my money where my mouth is."

According to Capital Online, Ashman’s bid has held strong since he entered the race.

The only announced competitor, Alex Tsironis from The MoCo Show, has yet to receive spousal consent but says he is toying with the idea of making an independent bid.

"I’m not worried about him," Ashman said. "Besides, there are four more at large with no real competition to speak of."